For many Indian travelers, South Korea is paradise, with the exciting mix of busy cities, historical sites and beautiful landscapes. To see the busy streets of Seoul or ancient palaces or immerse yourself in K-pop culture, you will need a South Korea tourist visa. This guide will take you through the process of applying for a tourist visa to South Korea from India step-wise.
Do Indians Need a Visa for South Korea?
Indeed, holders of Indian passports need a visa to visit South Korea for tourism. Nevertheless, some Indian travelers holding visas issued by the USA, Canada, Australia, or a Schengen area country may be exempted from obtaining a visa to enter Jeju Island.
Types of South Korea Tourist Visas
Before applying, it’s essential to choose the right type of visa:
- Single-Entry Visa – Valid for one visit (up to 90 days)
- Multiple-Entry Visa – Allows multiple visits within the validity period
- Short-Term Visa – Issued for tourism, business, or short visits
Where to Apply for a South Korea Tourist Visa in India
Indian travellers can apply for a South Korean tourist visa through:
- The South Korean Embassy in New Delhi
- The Consulates in Jaipur, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata
- Visament Website (authorized visa application centres)
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a South Korea Tourist Visa
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Gather all necessary documents before submitting your application:
- Valid Passport (valid for more than 6 months and with 2 empty pages)
- Completed Visa Application Form (from the downloadable site)
- Recent Passport-Size Photograph (meeting South Korean visa photo requirements)
- Flight Itinerary (recommendation on round-trip tickets)
- Hotel Reservations or letter of invitation from a host in South Korea
- Bank Statements (last 6 months) showing sufficient funds
- Income Tax Returns (last 3 years)
- Employment Proof (NOC from employer or business registration documents for self-employed applicants)
Step 2: Fill Out the Visa Application Form
Fill in the information carefully and correctly. You will often hear of cases where a person was rejected to apply because of, quote, wrong passport numbers or travel dates not matching.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment at Visament Website
Now, you want to visit Visament’s official website to book an appointment with your nearest visa application centre. Walk-in will not be entertained.
Step 4: Submit Your Application and Biometrics
On the appointment day:
- Carry original and photocopied documents
- Submit your visa application on the counter
- Provide biometric data (fingerprints) if required
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fees
Visa fees vary according to the type:
- Single-Entry Visa – Nearly INR 3,200
- Multiple-Entry Visa – Nearly INR 7,000
Step 6: Track Your Visa Application
Track your application online via Visament using the reference number on the receipt after submission.
Step 7: Collect Your Visa and Passport
You will receive a notification once the application has been approved. Such notifications may inform that your passport is ready for collection. If a notification informs of a rejection, check the cause and plan to reapply with the correct documentation.
South Korea Tourist Visa Processing Time
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
Many applications get rejected due to:
- Incomplete documentation
- Insufficient financial proof
- Mismatched travel plans
- Previous visa violations To avoid rejection, double-check your application and ensure all required documents are provided.
FAQs About South Korea Tourist Visa for Indians
- Can I apply for a South Korean visa online?
Ans: No, Indian travellers must apply through the embassy, consulate, or VFS Global. - Do I need travel insurance?
Ans: While not mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover emergencies. - How much bank balance is required for a South Korea tourist visa?
Ans: A minimum of INR 2-3 lakhs is advisable to demonstrate financial stability.
Conclusion
Visa application procedure in order for a tourist visa for South Korea from India seems pretty burdensome, however, if you follow through the steps in this breakdown, the application is hassle-free. With proper documentation and preparation, you’ll be packing your bags for a journey to South Korea in no time!